Three French internationals left needing treatment, and one surgery, as French club speaks of 'shock and outrage'

Team mates of Wales star Jonathan Davies at French giants Clermont-Auvergne were attacked by an armed gang reportedly wielding machetes, knives and swords while returning from a night out in the southern French town of Millau.

French internationals Aurelien Rougerie, Julien Pierre and Benjamin Kayser were hospitalised after the attack which occurred as the club undertakes a pre-season training camp.

According to reports the trio were returning from a nightclub when the incident happened at around 3am on Sunday morning. They all suffered non-life threatening injuries.

Pierre was reportedly set to undergo surgery after suffering deep cuts to his thigh, while Rougerie and Kayser are understood to have suffered arm injuries.

It is not known if Davies, who played a full part in Wales’ tour to South Africa last month, has yet linked up with his new club.

In a statement, Clermont said: "The whole club is both shocked and outraged by these incidents and is providing all the necessary support to the local authorities, who have opened an investigation into the attack to find and punish the perpetrators.

"In addition to helping the players involved, the club is also contemplating legal proceedings.

"We will provide more information as soon as possible on the health of our players."

Clermont reached the semi-final of the Heineken Cup last season but were defeated by Saracens.

Wales and Lions full-back Lee Byrne spent three years with the club before returning to Welsh rugby this summer with the Dragons.

Clermont captain Rougerie has 77 caps for France, while Kayser and Pierre have 24 and 27 respectively.

Davies will play his first matches in the French Top 14 with his new club next month, after deciding to move to the Stade Marcel Michelin from the Scarlets last season.

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